Access to Witney Update

New slip roads are being built at the A40/B4022 Shores Green junction to improve access to Witney, reduce congestion in the town centre, and provide new footpaths and crossings.

The project is delivering crucial improvement to drainage in the project area. This is being achieved by installing new channels designed to collect water and ensure its controlled, slow release. Various solutions are already complete, including drainage ditches, filter drains, gulleys, and attenuation ponds, all of which substantially enhance the drainage network. 

These solutions and more will ultimately ensure there is a reduced impact on the Limb Brook by controlling the flow of water, providing overall drainage betterment to the area. 

Landscaping and fencing 

We are quickly advancing the landscaping work on the Access to Witney Scheme, with the planting of new trees along the route progressing apace. More trees are being delivered and planted specifically around the south attenuation pond.

This will not only enhance the visual appeal of the area but will also support biodiversity net gain of the project. The newly planted trees will also benefit from the rainwater, contributing to natural drainage improvements and helping to manage surface water sustainably.

Support to South Leigh
 

As part of the project, the county council continues to support local parish councils through a range of initiatives, with a recent success being the completion of the 20 mph speed reduction project in South Leigh. This included improvements to the local bus stop, with the fitting of a dropped kerb next to the stop and upgrading the hard-standing pavement around the bus shelter.
 
These changes will ensure pedestrians have safer places to cross the road and a more comfortable, accessible route from the bus shelter to the playing fields, enhancing the overall journey for everyone in the area.
 

Our plans for the environment 
 
While it's been necessary to remove some vegetation to enable construction, we have now started the re-vegetation of the disturbed area. Our robust landscaping and environmental protection strategy includes the following:

• Re-vegetation using native species, with appropriate on- and off-site biodiversity offsetting.
• Implementing erosion control to mitigate soil degradation.
• Continuous monitoring and restoration of natural habitats.
• Planting trees, shrubs, and hedges.
• Creating wildlife-friendly habitats and ecological corridors.
• Safeguarding and enhancing local biodiversity.

Timelines

Construction works start - Spring 2025

Construction works completed - Summer